Profiles of approximately 150 breeds are arranged by AKC groups. Valuable information on traits, grooming, exercise and nutrition needs, hundreds of color photos and black-and-white line art make this a must reference book

Dr. Brain feels strongly that you should not choose a dog based on what breed your favorite movie star owns, or that dog you saw walking down the street last week that looked so adorable. All dogs are not created equal, and some breeds are going to be better suited to your lifestyle, circumstances, and personality. This little guide will either prepare you for dog ownership or convince you that you'd be happier with a nice goldfish.

This authoritative volume on selecting and caring for any kind of dog focuses - in the ASPCA tradition - on mixed breeds, a major difference from most other dog books, which describe only purebreds. 650+ photos.

How do dogs perceive the world about them? How do they see, hear, learn, relate to their owners? Veterinarian Dr. Bruce Fogle has written the most inclusive and relevant book on how the canine mind works.

Dog training through effective communication with your pet is the focus of this excellent online program of non-violent training. See TIP, below, for how to find the articles.

Tip: Click the clock icon in the center of the page linked above, then explore the three colums of links at the bottom of the destination page. The left two colums contain brief, informative articles on 10 aspects of dog trainging. The right-hand column, "Must-Have Commands," links to the for-sale portion of the program, an online manual which is very reasonably priced at US$5.

Contrary to what you've always heard, not all dogs want to earn their owner's approval. Sometimes they seem as if they could not care less. "If you're frustrated and about ready to give up on [your dog], don't pack it in without first perusing this compelling guidebook." (The Seattle Times)

These are not tutorials so much as mini-articles on various aspects of dog training. They're included here because the advice is clear, succinct, and good. Whether it's doggie manners, the order in which to teach a dog commands, or handling aggression problems, there are a lot of good solutions here. The articles are part of a larger site that includes books and videos for sale, a dog training discussion group, and more.

"A free tutorial on the inner workings of the major subsystems of the modern automobile." That about covers it. Illustrated, but not particularly interactive. Site also features car care tips and a paid "second opinion" service.

This is a commercial site, not a learning site, per se, but they offer a tutorial on mixing and using henna, and a good troubleshooting section. From the page linked above, click the "Henna & Mehndi" link in the left-hand frame. On that page, click either "How-To" or "Troubleshooting" at the top of the page. The accompanying "Gallery" pages, also linked from the top of this page, show photos of some mehndi tattoos.

Eight subject areas, each with three subsections, take Web beginners through the very basics of connecting to the World Wide Web, email, building webpages, digital TV, legal matters, and more, all at the learner's own pace. Lessons, quizzes, interactive tasks. You can register to receive certification for the course.

If other HTML learning sites or books have intimidated you in the past, try this one. Every aspect of HTML for the nervous beginner is painstakingly explained, step-by-step. It's even set up so that you can do one lesson a day to master HTML basics in a week.

This excellent site will walk you through every aspect of building a website, no matter how little you know about the subject, and teach you the basics of site design at the same time you're learning HTML markup. Clean, clear, navigable, and easy to understand.

Great side-by-side HTML tutorial. Sample code is show on the left side, browser output on the right. Read the "Getting Started" section to learn how the tutorial works. Site also offers a free HTML editor and a free browser.

JavaScript from the ground up in seven chapters plus goodies. Divided into small chunks with lots of examples and illustrations where necessary, the program is intended for upper-grade students, which makes it a good bet for beginners of any age.

Tip: The red rectangle link at the bottom of each page will take you to the next portion of the lesson.

30 primers cover JAVAScript from Dates, Times, and Event Handlers to Loops and Arrays and beyond. Each learning unit is presented, deconstructed, and summarized, then there's an assignment you can do to put what you've learned to practical use. Dr. Brain was wowed by how well these primers were written and presented.

This is the place to come if you want to learn PERL and CGI, and you've been needlessly intimidated by other web tutorials. From an introduction to the principles of PERL, through guestbook scripting to a personal search engine and password-protection scripts.

Clean, clear, concise, step-by-step instructions to familiarize the unfamiliar with Microsoft Access 2000 database application. Familiarity with this version of Access will provide most of what you need to conquer later versions.

Clean, clear, concise, step-by-step instructions to familiarize the unfamiliar with Microsoft Word 2000 database application. Familiarity with this version of Excel will provide most of what you need to conquer later versions.

Step-by-step and easy to understand, because they were written for intermediate school students. This makes them perfect for the beginning learner of any age.

Tip: The link to the next part of the lesson is at the bottom of the video screen. The area at the left of the screen contains links to the lessons, to the right of the screen is commentary, explanation of terms, etc.

Clean, clear, concise, step-by-step instructions to familiarize the unfamiliar with Microsoft FrontPage 2000 web site building application. Familiarity with this version of FrontPage will provide most of what you need to conquer later versions.

This tutorial was written for intermediate-grade kids, which is why it's simply perfect for the absolute beginner. Dr. Brain says, "Give it a whirl."
Join Agent Max Millennium on a humorous adventure to learn why Microsoft Office 2000 is a must-have for all your classroom projects. Expertise in Office 2000 will give you most of what you need to tackle any later versions of the product.

Tip: If you have a 56.6 or better connection, a 3.0 or better browser, and the Flash plug-in, you might want to watch the Flash version. If you don't, an HTML version is available.

Everything you need to know about sending and receiving electronic mail with Microsoft Outlook Express. Clear and easy instructions, tips, and interactive quizes to reinforce what you've learned. Designed for sixth graders, so even an adult can do it.

Tip: Scroll down through the lesson bits to get to the tips, and links to the Quiz-Byte and the next lesson.

Go right to the source for dozens of tutorials on this useful but complex application. Text and QuickTime presentations on Color, Filters, Layers, Masks, Photo Retouching, Typography and Text Effects, Web Graphics, and more.

Tip: Links to Tech Support, certification training, Updates and Plug-ins are also available from these pages.

Despite the site's title, this is PowerPoint for just about anyone, anywhere. Designed for intermediate-grade classrooms, it provides just the perfect learning approach for beginners of all ages. "Power Pointers" and quick quizzes augment and reinforce what you learn in the concise and easy step-by-step lessons.

Clean, clear, concise, step-by-step instructions to familiarize the unfamiliar with Microsoft PowerPoint 2000 multi-media presentation appliation. Familiarity with this version of PowerPoint will provide most of what you need to conquer later versions.

Clean, clear, concise, step-by-step instructions to familiarize the unfamiliar with Microsoft Word 2000 word processing appliation. Familiarity with this version of Word will provide most of what you need to conquer later versions.

Dozens of easy to absorb step-by-step videos on the basics of cooking, from sharpening your knives to perfect soft-cooked eggs; from flaky pastry to fancy napkin folding. This is a wonderful stopping-off place for anyone who wants to learn more about cooking. More lessons and tips can be found at http://eat.epicurious.com/learn/

This online cooking course in presented by the CorningWare people. Lessons in Roasting, Braising, Baking, Microwaving, Grilling and Broiling, Steaming and Poaching, with at least one great recipe in each. Lots of step-by-step photos and clear instructions, printable recipe and instruction cards. Great for either beginning or experienced cooks. Dr. Brain would have given this one another brain for being more veggie-friendly, but there is a cheese soufflé.

There's far more on this site than can be covered in a short review: Basics, Ingredients, Cooking Techniques, Wines, Cake Decorating, and nicely illustrated cooking lessons from guest chefs. Not interactive, but crammed with enough information to keep a beginning or intermediate cook busy for a long time. Dr. Brain particularly likes The Master Recipe for bottom-of-the-cabinet cooking.

Basic instructions on getting started in candle making, with interlinked learning areas. Virtually un-illustrated and might be easier to follow if you print it using the "print all linked pages" option.

Tip: According to candle guru Sherman, candlemaking is a 'closed system,' so familiarize yourself with all subject areas before you start putting the information to use. Especially the Candlemakikng Safety information

If Renaissance costume is your thing, this site will definitely raise your heart rate. Articles, PDF printouts, demos, patterns, and so much more. It's not always easy to tell where you'll find what you want, but there's a lot of information, and it's frequently updated.

Tip: Mouse-over the menu items on the left of the page linked above to see a description of that area.

Clear and easy step-by-step lessons for the sewing beginner, thoroughly illustrated. 12 lessons take you from preparation through a finished item (an envelope-back pillow cover) with ease. Printer-friendly page versions make printing out the lessons a snap.

Tip: To get the most out of these lessons, be sure to follow the links on the lesson pages.

Origami folds, Simple, Low Intermediate, Intermediate, High Intermediate, and Complex. Some links are to printable .gif files, others to .pdf files. If you don't already have it, you'll need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is free.

Tip: From this main page, choose "Joseph Wu's Origami Diagrams" on the top right of the page.

Detailed plans based on study and measurement of reproductions or originals from European museums - step-by-step instructions, materials lists, and notes on woodworking, metalworking, carving, and finishes

Master gardener Alan Titchmarsh takes learners through all aspects of gardening, from understanding your soil to keeping your garden going year-round. On the way, learn how even the smallest plot can yield delicious fruits and vegetables, and how to overcome common garden pests and pitfalls.

Tip: Register before taking the course if you'd like to receive certification from the Royal Horticultural Society.

If you've been wondering how to get started tracing your family's history, here's a quick course on constructing family trees, researching, official documents, censuses and other sources, with helpful tips from expert genealogists. Includes activities, quizzes, recommended reading, and links to outside sources.

The fun, easy-to-use guide that African Americans have been waiting for since Alex Haley published Roots more than twenty-five years ago. Where to search, how to organize and analyze your results, and much more.

Learn how to use existing resources to find information on your ancestors, create pedigrees, use genealogy computer software, etc. Flash-navigated version available, but lessons are in text in either version.

This was designed for middle graders, but Dr. Brain thinks it's a simple, engaging and entertaining ways for anyone of any age to learn the principles of Heraldry. As Robert, Second son of Lord Landly, you must unravel the details of a political plot by remembering the lessons of Roger the Herald. Roger's lessons pop up in a separate window so that you can refer back to them.

The most popular and colorful personality on the Discovery Channel brings his proven Seven Layers of Design system to readers in a lively blend of design theory and hands-on advice for do-it-yourself projects.

The very basics of decorating for the beginner: making the most of space, choosing a style, color schemes, and hunting for bargains. Clearly written and informative. Lots of information to get you started with basic budget décor.

This fascinating and easy-to-follow guide to using Space Clearing and other principles of Feng Shui to enhance the flow of energy in your home or workplace and so create happiness and abundance in every area of your life.

Basic history and principles of Feng Shui presented simply and cleary. Learn how to evaluate your living space for optimum geomantic vibes. History, Principles, Environment Analysis, and more. A down-to-earth and easy-to-grasp approach.

Benefit from Feng Shui by applying its principles to what you already have in your home. Whether you live in an apartment, house, penthouse, or studio, you'll find 188 smart ways to transform your home's negative energies into luck-laden positive chi.

Tip: Dozens of illustrated lessons for the beginning photographer on the artistic aspects of photography, from choosing a subject and viewpoint, through lighting, to computer enhancement and digital photography and beyond. The site's author even invites phtographers to send him up to four photos for critique.

A free synchronized preparation course for the GED. Students sign up for each course by a given date and continue through with the same classmates. Moderated learning, with lots of interaction with other students via email and chat. A great way to study at home for the GED.

Tip: There is also an asynchronous study plan for those who want to go it alone at their own pace, but it's being revised as of this review, so not all of the study materials are presently available online.

Tip: The site requires a quick and painless registration in order to begin the class.

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT), from how one registers, through tips on acing the various test sections, practice quesions, and links to more information.

Tip:This side would be worth another brain but for the broken links, but there's still plenty here to get you started on your business career.

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), from waht is tested and how the test is scored, through tips on acing the various test sections, practice quesions, and links to more information. A good place to start on your path to an advanced degree.

These games are fun if you already have basic typing skills, but they won't teach you to type from Square One. The good news is that you can download a free demo of their product TypingMaster 2002, which will get you started nicely. TypingMaster also offers a free downloadable Typing
Test.

Like the companion Online Writing Workshop for Science Ficiton, this site is the gateway to a true writing community of professionals and serious para-professional writers. One member writes: "This workshop has been more helpful with my writing than any class I've previously taken." If you're writing horror, you won't want to miss this site.

The Author of Sea of Glass and "Enemy Mine" presents the most extensive, wide-ranging, useful, and FREE science fiction writer's course available today. If you're serious about writing science fiction, there is absolutely no better place to start than right here.

Tip: The Navigation on the site is a bit clunky, but the content more than makes up for any confusion.

The Online Writing Workshop is a marvel. Writers retain all rights to works posted on the site, which can be read and reviewed by other writers as well as several editors-in-residence. A true writing community with a very professional approach. One member writes: "I'm in a MFA creative writing program, and I find this workshop is superior to anything I am doing in my Master's-level workshops." Dr. Brain recommends this writer's resource very highly.

Scientist and award-winning science fiction author Charles Sheffield surveys with an expert eye the current state of physics, astronomy, chemistry, biology, computers, and other fields. A valuable reference for the science fiction writer.

Want to write science fiction? Go right to the source. The Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America, a professional organization for speculative fiction writers, have put together a page of links to articles of interest to writers at every stage of their careers. Whether you want to know how to choose a writers' workshop, avoid common writing errors, overcome writer's block, sharpen your business skills, jump-start a stalled writing career, or any of dozens of useful topics, there's something here for you.

Tip: You don't have to be a SFWA member to subscribe to their excellent publication The SFWA Bulletin. Dr. Brain recommends it highly.

This nine-week screenwriting class was offered (for very good money) at UCLA for a number of years. Now it's yours for free from Steven Barnes.

Tip: Mr. Barnes also offers Lifewriting an instructional and motivational audio tapes-with-manual package that comes with a money-back guarantee, includes a free short story critique and ongoing support through an electronic newsletter.

Tip: At the bottom of the Lifewriting page is a link to an in-depth explanation of the paid course and the reasons behind it.

A detailed tutorial on writing proposals for the non-profit organization. It's not interactive, but it's neat and complete. When you're through absorbing this tutorial, you'll be ready to go off and write your grant proposal.

29 detailed and comprehensive lessons subjects from Business Correspondence and Oral Presentations through Document Design and Audience Analysis, to Information Structure and Team Writing. Links to lots and lots of illustrative examples.